Bonding is a treatment that can be used to repair teeth that are decayed, chipped, fractured or discoloured or to reduce gaps between teeth. Bonding can also be used to build up older teeth to make them appear younger. Bonding is an option for people of all ages, including children, as the resin can be replaced as teeth grow.

A composite resin — a type of plastic — is mixed into a paste, then tints are added to whiten or match the colour of your teeth. Several layers of resin are applied to each tooth. Each layer is hardened under an ultraviolet light or laser. Final steps include shaping and polishing the resin material so the finished tooth looks natural and smooth.*

*© Ontario Dental Association

Veneers are strong, thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the teeth. They are used to repair chipped, decayed or stained teeth and may help in closing gaps between teeth. With a bit of contouring, veneers may also correct slightly crowded or overlapping teeth. If your teeth have discoloured with age, a veneer may improve their appearance.

Veneers can also be used for cosmetic reasons instead of crowns, which are more often used for badly damaged or decayed teeth. The tooth enamel needs to be ground down slightly in order to accommodate the veneer. Veneer preparations frequently require the use of local anaesthetic and, depending on colour and shade, may take more than one appointment to complete.*

*© Ontario Dental Association

When indicated, missing teeth should usually be replaced to help regain your ability to chew, prevent other teeth from shifting, and restore your smile. There are three main types of artificial teeth. Each one is designed for a particular situation:

A crown or cap is a cover that fits over a tooth that has been damaged by decay, broken, badly stained or mis-shaped. It is prepared by your dentist, and usually requires more than one visit to complete.

A crown can be made of acrylic, metal, porcelain, or porcelain bonded to metal. All-porcelain crowns look more like your natural teeth, and therefore are usually used for front teeth, while porcelain bonded to metal is stronger and better for crowns in the back of the mouth. Sometimes all-metal crowns are used for back teeth because of the metal’s strength.

To prepare your tooth for a crown, the tooth is first frozen with anaesthesia, and then filed down so the cap can fit over it. An impression of the teeth and gums is made, and a temporary cap is fitted over the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

On your next visit, the dentist will remove the temporary cap and cement the crown onto the tooth. The crown will closely match the colour and shape of your natural teeth.*

*© Ontario Dental Association

Periodontal (Gum) Disease & Treatment

Gum Disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults: it attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth. Beginning with slight swelling and redness, and sometimes sensitivity of the gums, Gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease, can go undetected if a patient avoids regular dental checkups. However, as it progresses, periodontal disease can become quite serious causing gum recession, tooth loss, and bone loss. Research has also linked periodontal disease to other health risks such as stroke, heart attack, diabetes complications, low birth-weights and premature births.

Malo Dentistry will screen for periodontal disease at your regular check-up. If we find that you are at risk, we will counsel you on preventive measures. Should we diagnose gingivitis or periodontitis, we will recommend periodontal therapy which can generally be performed in our clinic. Advanced periodontitis may require a specialist, in which case we refer patients to a trusted periodontist for treatment.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular visits to the dentist can reduce your risk of periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Red and puffy gums
• Bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Receding gums
• Tenderness or Discomfort in gums or teeth
• New spacing between teeth
• Pus around the teeth and gums

Many people assume they will wear dentures eventually. However, with proper care, your teeth can easily last a lifetime. That said, should you lose the majority of your teeth, full dentures can replace them and restore your smile. Even if you are only missing a few of your natural teeth, you may want to think about filling out your smile with partial dentures. They can help you look younger while providing support to your cheeks and lips. Dentures aid in speaking, chewing and swallowing. Talk to us to find out if dentures are right for you.

Types of Dentures

As previously mentioned, there are two types of dentures: full and partial. Each type is made from an impression of the wearer’s mouth. Once the mold is made and the measurements are sent off to a dental lab to be made into permanent dentures, the dentist fits a temporary denture. Dentures are secured by attaching to or fitting over any remaining natural teeth or implants.

Denture Care

Taking care of your dentures is vital to your overall oral health. Here are some tips on how to keep them in good condition:

• Clean dentures over a water-filled sink to prevent damage if they are dropped
• Place a small amount of liquid hand soap on the denture brush and brush all surfaces, including the clasps on a partial denture
• Rinse well with water
• Store dry in a labelled denture cup
• To re-insert dentures, wet first with water to prevent discomfort.*

*© Ontario Dental Association

Teeth naturally darken with age; however staining may be caused by various foods and beverages such as coffee, tea and berries, some drugs such as tetracycline, smoking, or a trauma to a tooth. There are various teeth whitening options available.

A beautiful healthy smile has never been easier to achieve. Today’s technology and new techniques make it easy and affordable to correct any number of cosmetic issues with your smile including repairing and replacing damaged or missing teeth, closing gaps, and whitening stains.

If you have any concerns about the appearance of your smile, Dr. Steve or Dr. Ian Malo will be happy to discuss the various options and help you choose the one that’s right for you. Some of the options include:

• Bonding
• Bridges and implants
• Caps and crowns
• Teeth whitening
• Veneers

Comprehensive Oral Health Care For Your Entire Family

Regular checkups and cleanings help maintain healthy teeth and gums for the whole family.